Five key players in Leverkusen's title breakthrough

Leverkusen fans finally saw their team lift the league title after years of heartbreak that included five second-place finishes. While the architect of Leverkusen's breakthrough title victory is undoubtedly Xabi Alonso, the coach had an excellent squad at his disposal.

The quality of Leverkusen's team, with many on long-term deals, was enough to convince Alonso to brush off advances from Liverpool and Bayern Munich to pledge his future to the club beyond this season. 'AFP Sport' looks at five key players in Leverkusen's title-winning season: 

Among an array of attacking talents, Florian Wirtz has shone the brightest. With an impressive passing repertoire reminiscent of Kevin de Bruyne, Wirtz is Leverkusen's creative force. He has 14 goals and 18 assists in all competitions this season - both career-best marks.

Still just 20, Wirtz's maturity has shone this campaign, perhaps best illustrated by his status as the club's designated penalty taker.

Wirtz came into his own with the title in sight, scoring in three of four league games leading into the decisive clash with Bremen. He also contributed two goals and an assist in the German Cup semi-final win over Fortuna Duesseldorf. 

His hat-trick in the title-sealing game on Sunday brought fans storming the pitch while reminding everyone he remains the jewel in the crown of Alonso's side. 

Leverkusen snared left-back Alex Grimaldo on a free-transfer in the summer and the Spaniard has paid back their faith. Grimaldo announced himself in the league with a superb free-kick in Leverkusen's 2-2 draw at Bayern in September.

Pairing with right-back Jeremie Frimpong for 39 goal contributions in the league, Grimaldo has also been lethal from dead ball situations. Coming into the Bremen match on